The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has ordered an investigation into the fatal military aircraft crash that claimed the lives of several “brave officers and airmen”.

“A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate crash has been ordered to ascertain the cause and ensure all necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across our military aviation units,” Musa said in a statement issued on Monday.

Describing the incident as one that came with a “profound sense of grief and heavy heart”, the defence minister said, “The loss of these valiant patriots is an irreparable blow not only to the military high command and their comrades-in-arms, but to the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“These fine officers and men exemplify the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty, and commitment to the defence of our Fatherland.”

He extended “our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the leadership of the Armed Forces, and most especially, the immediate families, loved ones, and colleagues of our fallen heroes. We share in your immense grief and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you during this tragic hour.”

“Our hearts also go out to the families of the civilians on board the ill-fated aircraft; we share your grief,” the minister said.

“We pray that the Almighty God grants the souls of the departed eternal repose and gives their families, the military community, and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.